Language is a living entity that evolves over time, often resulting in variations and confusion about common phrases. One such phrase that often trips people up is “Coming Down the Pike” or “Coming Down the Pipe.” Both versions of the expression are used frequently in casual conversation, but only one of them is correct. So, which one is it?
In this article, we will explore the origins of the phrase, and the reasons for the confusion, and finally settle the debate: Is it “Coming Down the Pike” or “Coming Down the Pipe?”
The Origin of “Coming Down the Pike”
The phrase “Coming Down the Pike” is the correct version and originates from the early 1900s. The word “pike” in this context refers to “turnpike,” which is an old term for a major road or highway, particularly one that had tolls. Essentially, the phrase means something is coming down the road, or is on its way, indicating that it will happen soon or in the near future.
For example:
- “There’s a new technological revolution coming down the pike.”
This means that a new technological shift is expected to happen soon. The image of something heading toward you down a highway gives a sense of inevitability and anticipation, which is why “Coming Down the Pike” implies that whatever is being discussed is imminent.
The Misconception: “Coming Down the Pipe”
While “Coming Down the Pike” is the correct phrase, the confusion likely stems from the fact that “pipe” makes logical sense to some speakers. After all, things travel through pipes, whether it’s water, air, or information. In modern industries like the internet and telecommunications, we often speak of information “flowing through the pipes,” so it’s easy to see why people might think that something could be “coming down the pipe.”
For example:
- “There’s a major policy change coming down the pipe.”
In this sentence, the speaker uses “pipe” instead of “pike,” possibly because they think of the phrase as referring to something moving through a conduit, like a pipe, that delivers something to its destination.
However, while the imagery makes sense, the original phrase has nothing to do with pipes. It’s a mistaken variation that has gained traction simply because of its perceived logic.
The Case for “Coming Down the Pike”
Historically, “Coming Down the Pike” was used to describe an upcoming event that would soon be visible or known, just as a traveler on a turnpike would eventually become visible as they approached. The phrase began to be used metaphorically to suggest that something is on its way, typically something important or noteworthy.
The connection with roads and highways makes sense when you consider the phrase’s context. In the early 1900s, turnpikes were major routes of travel, and anything significant—whether it was people, vehicles, or even events—would travel along these roads. This gave birth to the idiom, solidifying “pike” as the appropriate word.
The term “pike” has fallen out of common usage, which may contribute to the confusion today. Turnpikes aren’t as prominent as they once were, and the word “pipe” is more commonly used in modern contexts, making it easier for people to assume that “pipe” is the correct term. But in reality, it’s “Coming Down the Pike” that maintains historical accuracy and linguistic tradition.
Why the Confusion?
The confusion between “Coming Down the Pike” or “Coming Down the Pipe” could be attributed to several factors:
1. Similar Sounding Words
“Pike” and “pipe” sound incredibly similar, especially in casual conversation. It’s easy to mishear one for the other, and once a misinterpretation spreads, it can become difficult to correct.
2. Logical Interpretation of “Pipe”
As mentioned earlier, modern interpretations of phrases involving pipes are tied to technology and infrastructure. In the digital age, we commonly speak about data or information “coming through the pipeline,” referring to how digital signals travel through fiber-optic cables and other systems. This creates a false sense of correctness for those who use “pipe” instead of “pike.”
3. Evolving Language
Language changes over time, and phrases are no exception. As people use “Coming Down the Pipe” more frequently, it begins to gain legitimacy, even though it’s technically incorrect. This doesn’t mean “Coming Down the Pipe” is acceptable in formal contexts, but it is a prime example of how idioms can evolve based on popular usage.
4. Lack of Familiarity with “Pike”
For younger generations, the word “pike” is not a commonly heard term, except in certain regions where turnpikes are still a part of daily life. Without knowledge of the term’s meaning, “pipe” feels like a more intuitive choice, leading to the propagation of the error.
Other Examples of Similar Linguistic Errors
The debate around “Coming Down the Pike or Pipe” is not the only example of commonly confused idioms. Some other similar errors include:
- “For all intents and purposes” vs. “For all intensive purposes”
The correct phrase is “For all intents and purposes,” but many people mistakenly use “intensive” instead. - “One and the same” vs. “One in the same”
“One and the same” is the correct phrase, but “one in the same” is often used by mistake. - “Couldn’t care less” vs. “Could care less”
The correct expression is “couldn’t care less,” yet “could care less” is frequently heard in casual conversation, even though it reverses the intended meaning.
These examples show that language is full of phrases that are easily misunderstood, leading to the widespread usage of incorrect versions.
Conclusion: “Coming Down the Pike” is Correct
To settle the debate once and for all: the correct phrase is “Coming Down the Pike.” While “Coming Down the Pipe” may seem logical in a modern context, it is historically inaccurate and a misinterpretation of the original idiom.
The phrase “Coming Down the Pike” continues to serve as a metaphor for something approaching, much like a vehicle on a turnpike making its way toward you. Whether it’s an upcoming event, a new trend, or a major announcement, “Coming Down the Pike” is the phrase that should be used.
So next time you hear someone say “Coming Down the Pipe,” you’ll know the true origin—and can gently correct them!
